(Phoenix, Ariz. -- Sept. 13, 2010) Steps to tighten border security, a multi-faceted assault on mortgage fraud and effective work to protect consumers from deceptive marketing are among the accomplishments summarized in Attorney General Terry Goddard's 2010 Annual Report.

The newly released, 54-page document recaps the Office's achievements during the past fiscal year from July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010. Highlights include:

Gaining a $94 million recovery from Western Union, which will provide substantial resources for law enforcement agencies to fight illegal activity along the entire U.S.- Mexico border.

Playing a key role in the takedown of two major drug-trafficking organizations operating in Arizona and Mexico.

Taking action on several fronts to combat mortgage fraud and other predatory lending practices.

Brokering a crucial agreement to protect Luke Air Force Base and boost its bid to become a training site for the F-35, the next generation of Air Force fighter jets.

Helping put an end to high-interest "payday loans" in Arizona.

Stopping deceptive advertising and marketing in several cases involving national companies and local auto dealers.

The report provides a breakdown of more than $170 million the Office generated last year for the State and taxpayers, roughly three times the amount the State appropriated to the Attorney General's Office.

Also noted is one other measure of cost-effectiveness: A solid record in defending the State against liability lawsuits. Claims of more than $1.8 billion were filed during the year with only $4.68 million (less than one-quarter of 1 percent) paid to settle or discharge such claims.

"I am very proud of the excellent work done by our attorneys and staff, especially at a time when we often needed to do more with less," Goddard said. "We've had a highly productive year despite budget cuts that have reduced our fulltime employees by nearly 25 percent since I took office in 2003."